Innovation Matchmaking in Oncology: Working Together Against Cancer—How Hospitals and AI Innovations Are Shaping the Future

The Oncology Innovation Matchmaking event will take place on October 15 at the University Hospital of Würzburg as a prelude to the 6th BZKF Network Meeting, bringing together clinics, startups, and key players from the innovation ecosystem in a targeted manner. The goal is to initiate new collaborations between medical practice and technological innovation and to further develop concrete projects in oncology. The focus is on AI-based innovations for medicine. Selected startups will present their solutions in concise pitch sessions followed by interactive discussions, providing a quick overview of different approaches and concrete opportunities for collaboration with hospitals. In addition, funding and financing opportunities for collaborations between hospitals and industry will be presented. In an integrated mini-coaching session, clinicians will gain practical insights into ways to secure project funding, as well as guidance on framework conditions and support services.
In this way, Innovation Matchmaking creates a structured platform for direct dialogue between clinical stakeholders and providers of innovative solutions

Are you developing an innovative solution for oncology? Then take this opportunity to present your project at the Oncology Innovation Matchmaking event. We are particularly looking for startups and teams in the pre-launch phase with practical approaches for clinical application—especially in the field of AI-supported medical technologies.

As a selected team, you’ll present your idea in a concise pitch to an expert audience from hospitals, research institutions, and funding organizations, and receive direct feedback from potential users and collaboration partners. The goal is to establish relevant contacts early on, initiate joint projects, and advance the further development of your innovation.

In addition, you will gain insights into funding and financing opportunities for collaborations between hospitals and industry, as well as access to key players in the innovation ecosystem.

Apply through the Call for Abstracts. Key criteria include the level of innovation in your solution, its clinical relevance, and the potential for collaboration with medical partners. Applications from early-stage project teams that have not yet formally established a company are expressly welcome.

The deadline for submitting pitch decks is September 25, 2026. Please send your pitch deck directly to Harald Unterweger.